The best things to do in San Francisco | City Break

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This week on the Grow Gorgeous blog we’re continuing our City Break series by taking a look at San Francisco. This culture-rich city is bursting with incredible views, amazing places to eat and is rich in history. From amazing seafood at Sausalito to the best coffee in Haight Ashbury check out our recommendations of the best things to do in San Francisco.

Bike along the Golden Gate bridge to Sausalito

Heading to the Golden Gate Bridge is an obvious one but it is a must. One of the most famous bridges in the world try to go on a clear day and avoid the fog for the best photo opp.

Next, wander over (or get the bus or ferry) to Sausalito. This stunningly beautiful harbour town basically has its own climate, meaning it’s guaranteed to be a few degrees warmer and a lot less misty than San Fran city itself. Explore this unique town by bike and make sure to head to a seafood restaurant on the harbour front.

Warning; it’s likely you’ll want to end up wanting to move there and even a house boat hits about the $1million mark.

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Go to Mama’s

For over 50 years, this small restaurant in Washington Square of San Francisco, has been attracting crowds (and we mean crowds) with its amazing breakfast foods. From Dungeness Crab Benedict to the most incredible pancakes. Beat the queues and get there early, it’ll be worth it.

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Head to up Lombard Street

You might not recognise the name of Lombard Street but you’ll know the view when you see it. The beautiful winding streets make the ideal photo opp, and it’s a great place for a quick stop off as you tour nearby neighborhoods like China Town or North Beach.

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Go watch the baseball

Ok, so if you’re American you can probably skip this one. For the rest of us, America’s favourite past time is still a bit of a novelty. If you’re going to go watch baseball for the first time, the home of the San Francisco Giants aka the AT&T Park is the place to do it. You might not have a clue what’s going on but the atmosphere is guaranteed to be buzzing and the view of the Golden Gate Bridge AND the Oakland Bay Bridge is incredible. Grab a pretzel, a pint and find some team spirit and you’re good to go.

Take a night tour of Alcatraz

Even if you’re not a history buff you’ll still love Alcatraz. The federal prison on Alcatraz Island housed some of America’s most difficult and dangerous felons during its years of operation. Visit after dark for the perfect level of creepy as you tour the old cells. Book as far in advance as possible as tickets go quick for this one.

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Admire the view from Coit Tower

One of the most famous viewpoints in San Fran is the Twin Peaks, where you can get almost unparalleled views of the city (especially at sunrise or sunset). However, it’s a big tourist trap and can get a little busy. Either visit early or why not try Coit Tower instead? Its observation deck provides 360-degree views of the city and bay, including the Golden Gate and Bay bridges and the walk up to the tower from the port is stunning.

Haight Ashbury and the Painted Ladies

Travel back to the late 60’s and the Summer of Love by taking a trip to Haight-Ashbury. The birthplace of America’s counter-culture, it’s now a haven for urban hippies and vintage enthusiasts. Browse vintage clothing and bookstores, take in the street art and stop for an organic brew at Coffee the People or incredible Thai food at hippie thai.

Make sure to hunt down some of San Francisco’s famous ‘Painted Ladies’ whilst you’re in the area. These colourful Victorian and Edwardian houses are painted three or more colours that enhance elements of their architecture. The most famous can be found at the corner of Hayes St and if you’re an avid Full House watcher you might just recognise them.